Festive Cinema Nights - December
Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.
From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out. Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences.
Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
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You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place.
If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.
Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.
Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration. If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.
Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington.
Number of results: 102
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Sporting Event
Freshwater
Chilly Hilly returns to the Isle of Wight on 13 December 2026, offering runners a challenging 10-mile cross-country route through the stunning landscapes of the West Wight. With spectacular views, demanding hills and a friendly community atmosphere,…
Sporting Event
Cowes
Cowes Week 2027 brings world-class sailing back to the Isle of Wight, with around 5,000 competitors racing more than 600 boats across 35 classes on the Solent. One of the world's most famous sailing regattas, the event combines thrilling racing,…
Festival
Portsmouth
Portsmouth Comic Con returns to the Guildhall for 2027 presenting the best in comic, film, TV and pop culture entertainment - a fantastic family-friendly day in Portsmouth, Hampshire.
Theatre
Eastleigh
Murder on the North Pole Express
A Christmas Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
Saturday 5th December 2026
All aboard for a Christmas journey where the festive spirit is high, the characters are colourful… and someone may not make it to the final…
Christmas
Southampton
Westquay on Ice returns to Southampton from 23 October 2026 to 3 January 2027, offering festive outdoor skating in the heart of the city. Combine a session on the ice with Christmas shopping at Westquay and John Lewis Southampton, making it the…
Christmas
London Road, Whitchurch
Head along to a unique setting for a cinema night, at one of the upcoming festive Cinema Nights at Bombay Sapphire Distillery and get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience.
Food
Whiteley, Fareham
£10 Sunday Roasts
Available every Sunday from 4th January at The Parsons Collar Pub
Celebrate Sunday with a tasty £10 treat!
When they are gone they are gone!
Book - lodge@solenthotel.co.uk
Exhibitions
Farnborough
Turn your property dreams into reality! The Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns to Farnborough International Centre from 16 - 17 January, packed with everything you need for your next big home project.
Show / Display
Romsey
The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Sarson Lane, Andover
Running over the Christmas school holidays, Saturday December 12 - Sunday 13 and Saturday December 19, 2026 – Sunday January 2, 2027
10:00am – 4:30 pm
Can you solve the mystery of Santa's missing present sack this Christmas? Bring the whole family…
Talks
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Join the John Lewis Southampton store on Monday 16 November for all the beauty inspiration you need this Christmas.
Sporting Events
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Want to discover the newest winter fashion trends and brands for the upcoming season? Join the Personal Stylists from John Lewis Southampton for an intimate look at the key trends and must-have essentials shaping this winter's wardrobe.
Arts
Portsmouth
Discover Memory Library, a new artist-led pop-up museum bringing together contemporary art, film, immersive technology and community storytelling to explore how we remember, share stories and connect in an increasingly digital world.
Food
Winchester
Join us at Winchester Royal Hotel for a delightful afternoon of sipping tea, eating delicious food inspired by Jane Austen's time
Show / Display
Portsmouth
We Shine is back for 2026 - transforming the city into a dazzling gallery of illuminated art.
Christmas
Alton
Celebrate the festive season at the Alton Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market on 27 November 2026. Enjoy festive shopping, live entertainment, family funfair rides, free visits with Father Christmas and the magical moment when Alton's Christmas…
Festival
Southampton
Southampton Arts and Humanities Day is the University of Southampton's annual celebration of Humanities and the Arts.
This November join us on a journey of discovery with over 40 free interactive events and activities for all to enjoy.
Walking
Town Quay, Southampton
Explore Southampton’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring on each fully wheelchair and buggy‑friendly route. Fun, affordable and perfect for all ages.
Christmas
Portsmouth
Get your skates on this festive season, as Portsmouth's Guildhall Square is transformed into a real ice rink.
Food
Beaulieu, Brockenhurst
Gather your favourite company on 13th December for a classic English tradition with a festive twist.
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